Press Coverage February 2020
season in the Sonoran Desert, which Angelica Elliott, Desert Botanical Valley enthusiasts kicks off in February and typically Garden’s assistant director of public can expect a good peaks in mid- to late March. horticulture, said two factors, rainfall and soil temperatures, typically 2020 wildflower Her favorite blooms? Poppies and determine what kind of wildflower season owl’s clover. Her favorite places to season an area will experience. Posted Friday, February 28, see wildflowers? White Tank For a spectacular year, the desert 2020 12:30 pm Mountains Regional Park, Lake needs about an inch of rain per By Kelly O'Sullivan, Independent Pleasant Regional Park and month from October to January or Newsmedia Bartlett Lake in the Tonto National February, she said. Forest. “We had a decent amount of rainfall starting in November,” Ms. Elliott “I used to go to Peridot Mesa (in said, noting that while the 2020 San Carlos), but gave up due to all wildflower season won’t likely the broken bottles in the poppy feature the thick carpets of blooms fields,” Ms. Ramaley said. that highlighted last year’s season, she expects a good showing around Lisa Manifold, an award-winning the valley. nature photographer who relocated to the East Valley from Southern “We’ll probably have ‘throw rugs,’ California in 2018 to be near her first those little pockets of wildflowers,” LISA MANIFOLD/SPECIAL TO love, the Salt River horses, also she said. INDEPENDENT NEWSMEDIA spends much of the spring season scouring the landscape for The season also should feature Bartlett Lake in the Tonto National wildflower photo ops. showings by blooms like the ajo lily, Forest northeast of Phoenix is a that don’t always make an popular spot for wildflower “Spring, winter’s demise, colors the appearance each year. Also known as enthusiasts. Here, purple lupine and land east of Phoenix with vibrant the desert lily, the ajo lily features tall chia mingle with yellow and pink blues, purples, yellows, oranges and stalks with large, elegant white poppies. pinks,” she said. “Pink mallow, pink- blooms similar to Easter lilies. Ajo hued poppies, vibrant blue lupines, lilies are primarily found in sand Shirley Ramaley is wild about golden brittle bush and so much dunes and sandy washes in Arizona wildflowers. more!” and Southern California, including the White Tank Mountains in the Every spring, the West Valley retiree Her favorite blooms? Prickly poppy. West Valley. packs up her camera and her hiking Her favorite places to search for gear, and hits trails across the greater wildflowers? The Superstition Ms. Elliott said enthusiasts also Phoenix area in search of the Mountains, the road to Tortilla Flats should be on the lookout for two colorful blooms that herald the (Canyon Lake), Desert Botanical other blooms that don’t make desert’s transition from winter to Garden, Boyce Thompson regular annual appearances: ghost summer. Arboretum, Usery Mountain flowers and orobanche. Regional Park, Gilbert Riparian “I love the outdoors,” Ms. Ramaley Preserve, Tonto National Forest; Ghost flowers, so-called for their said. “I have a B.S. in biology, and Peralta Trail in Gold Canyon, translucent, cream-colored blooms anything having to do with nature is Roosevelt Lake and Bartlett Lake. dotted with burgundy, can be found what I enjoy. Wildflowers are in and around washes and on rocky beautiful and I prefer painting them, Predicting the season slopes below 2,500 feet. in watercolor, over any other Some years, like the “super blooms” subject.” of 2017 and 2019, hillsides and fields Orobanche, a parisitic plant also across the desert are covered in known as desert broomrape, looks Ms. Ramaley, who has had wildflowers as far as the eye can see. like a mushroom before flowering numerous nature photographs Other years, it’s more sparse, a pop dark purple, Ms. Elliott said. It can published in children’s magazines of purple and orange here, a streak be found in sandy flats throughout over the years, said she goes in of pink or yellow there. the state. search of her colorful subjects about twice a week during wildflower Page 1
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How long will they stay? photos of wildflowers the victim calm until help The length of this year’s wildflower categorized by color to help arrives. season will depend on whether it users identify blooms they see. • Step aside: People on bicycles rains in March, and how quickly • Visit Phoenix, and horseback have right-of- daytime temperatures hit and stay in visitphoenix.com/blog/post/se way over people on foot. the high 70s to 80s. e-wildflowers-phoenix, lists multiple viewing options. “If it stays relatively cool, that will • Facebook groups like Arizona McDowell Mountain extend the season,” Ms. Elliott said. Wildflowers & Cacti, Arizona park is pretty busy. Higher temperatures trigger the Wildflower and Cactus Blossom plants to stop flowering and produce Alert, as well as numerous This scenic trail lets seeds to ensure the next generation photographers’ groups and you get away from of blooms. pages feature photos by wildflower enthusiasts who are the crowd Regardless of the quantity of blooms often happy to share where they McDowell Mountain hike: Try this and the length of the season, Ms. saw blooms. less used trail in the busy park Elliott encourages people to take The Lousley Hill Trail makes a advantage of the nice weather to get What to know before you go moderate climb with great views all around. out and explore during wildflower • Trekking through the desert in Mare Czinar, Special for The season. search of wildflowers is fun, but RepublicPublished 7:00 a.m. MT there are some things to know Feb. 27, 2020 | Updated 12:48 p.m. “Just go out into our Sonoran before you go in terms of MT Feb. 27, 2020 Desert,” she said. “We have etiquette and safety:
beautiful vistas, beautiful wildlife and • Leave no trace: Stay on beautiful plants.” designated trails, and don’t pick or trample the flowers. If you WHERE TO FIND must pose for a portrait of WILDFLOWERS yourself with the blooms, find a There are several ways to find out bare spot behind or in front of where to see and photograph the flowers of your choice, and wildflowers around the valley and settle there; don’t step, kneel or beyond: lay down except on bare • National, state and regional park ground. websites list what’s blooming in • Wear proper attire: Check Corrections & Clarifications: A their parks, as well as ranger-led weather reports and dress previous version of this story gave hikes and programs that may accordingly. Wear layers, a hat, an incorrect time frame for a interest visitors. For national sunglasses, good socks and lightning-caused fire at the park. The parks, monuments and sturdy shoes with soles designed fire occurred 24 years ago. preserves in Arizona, visit for diverse terrain. nps.gov/state/az and • Safety first: Stick to established Finding a quiet place in McDowell nps.gov/subjects/wildflowers. trails unless you’re familiar with Mountain Regional Park isn’t State parks, visit the area you’re exploring. Let always easy. azstateparks.com/wildflowers, someone know where you’re and regional parks around the going and when you plan to With its long, flowing trails, the valley, visit return home. Make sure your 21,099-acre Maricopa County park maricopacountyparks.net and cell phone battery is fully near Fountain Hills is popular with search wildflowers. charged, and bring plenty of mountain bikers, hikers and • DesertUSA.com features water and snacks. equestrians. wildflower reports for the • Respect wildlife: Keep an eye Arizona and California deserts, out for critters; wildlife, Outfitted with campsites, picnic as well as northern California, including venomous snakes, areas, playgrounds and family- Nevada, New Mexico and Utah. often hide in vegetation and friendly amenities and events, the The website shares photographs may bite if frightened. If you or park is a very busy place in Arizona’s provided by users, and its someone in your party is bitten, cooler months. Still, solitude can be wildflower field guide features call 9-1-1 immediately and keep found if you know where to look.
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trees and saguaro cactus provide Friends of White Tank Park co-sponsor the annual The 1.2-mile Lousley Hill Trail is an spots of shade throughout the Arts and Crafts Fair this weekend at the scenic park. under-the-radar gem that’s perfect otherwise open-to-the-sky hike. Photo courtesy Maricopa County Parks for escaping the crowds. The quiet trail offers easy access, a mild climb A series of long, lazy switchbacks White Tank Mountain Regional and scenic vistas of the Verde River lands hikers on the summit. A Park in Waddell will be celebrating valley, McDowell Mountains and gigantic rock cairn sits at the top of its 10th annual Arts and Crafts Fair distant wilderness peaks. the sunny vantage point with 360- this week. From the trailhead, a short access degree views. path crosses a sandy wash shaded by The juried fair will be held outdoors, mesquite trees to connect with the Look for the distinctive knob of Red 4 miles inside the White Tank loop portion of the trail. Either leg Mountain rising above emerald flood Mountain Park, on the west side of of the loop works for the climbing plains at the convergence of the Salt the Phoenix metropolitan area. part, although the left leg is less and Verde rivers and the hazy steep and more gradual than the silhouettes of the Sierra Ancha It will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 right. mountain range. p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29, and Sunday, March 1. The trail hugs the exposed, The summit has plenty of nice spots brittlebush-covered slopes of a peak to take a break or hang out to enjoy The park entrance fee will be waived on the northern nub of the Lousley the solitude of an isolated desert for Arts and Crafts Fair attendees. Hills, a north-south running ridge at bluff. If you’re up for more the park’s east border. The path is following this mini mountain assault, The fair is known for its handcrafted well maintained but a little rocky. consult the park map to build a art selection, tasty food vendors and There are rest areas with benches on longer loop or out-and-back hike. cultural assets. Native American both legs of the loop to take a break artists will display a variety of crafts if needed. Lousely Hill Trail and authentic designs. Length: 1.2-mile loop. Rating: Moderate. There will be over 60 art vendors Elevation: 1,711-2,036 feet. showing and selling a variety of art Admission: $7 per vehicle. during the event. Local artisans will Details: maricopacountyparks.net. showcase and sell jewelry, art, wood Read more of Mare Czinar's hikes carvings, woodcraft, textile arts, at arizonahiking.blogspot.com metalwork and more.
Food vendors will sell an array of White Tank desserts, beverages and savory A rock stack marks the summit of Lousley Hill in cuisine. McDowell Mountain Regional Park. (Photo: Mare Mountain Regional Czinar/Special for The Republic) Park annual Arts The Arts and Crafts Fair is co- A lightning-caused fire in 1996 and Crafts Fair sponsored this year by Friends of destroyed much of the park’s Emma Richburg, West Valley View White Tank Park, White Tank vegetation. Except for a few telltale Staff Mountains Conservancy, Maricopa black scars on saguaros, Feb 27, 2020 County Parks and Recreation disintegrating tree skeletons and Department and Renewal by sparse tree cover, you’d never know Andersen. that 24 years ago, the area looked like an ashen moonscape. White Tank Mountain Park is at 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Since then, the scorched earth has Road, Waddell. given way to a resurgence of desert shrubs, trees and wildflowers. This is For more information, an especially pretty hike in spring visit friendsofwhitetankpark.org. when Mexican gold poppies color the foothills and surrounding plains. Scattered stands of paloverde
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Press Coverage February 2020
field of golden poppies. And then abundant season so you may want to Best places to see texting friends back East and asking make this one of your first stops. wildflowers in them what they’re doing. The best locations will vary week to week. Goat Camp, Mesquite and Phoenix this spring: MORE THINGS TO DO: For Mule Deer are all good flower trails. Is another restaurant reviews, travel tips, Details: 20304 W. White Tank concert picks and more, subscribe to Mountain Road, Waddell. $7 per superbloom in azcentral.com. vehicle. 623-935- store? Wildflower hiking dos and don'ts 2505, www.maricopacountyparks.net Best places to see Arizona . wildflowers But first, let’s establish a couple of More: Arizona wildflower hikes and Wildflowers in bloom at Picacho rules so everyone can enjoy the scenic drives Peak State Park in 2019. season’s bounty. Roger Naylor, Special for The Estrella Mountain Regional Park RepublicPublished 5:00 a.m. MT First, don’t pick wildflowers. They’ll This big park in Goodyear had a Feb. 28, 2019 | Updated 11:03 a.m. die soon after being plucked and bountiful season last year and things MT Feb. 24, 2020 won’t have a chance to spread seeds. are looking very green in 2020. Leave them for others to enjoy. Visitors will find a nice medley of brittlebush, Mexican goldpoppies, Second, stay on trails and watch globemallows, rock daisies and where you step. There could be fiddlenecks. Some of the best small seedlings all around. Do not sightings can be found along the first trample the flowers by wading into a 2 miles of the Rainbow Valley Trail. field — thus ruining them for Look for swaths of color along the everyone — just so you can snag a Quail and Gadsden trails as well. selfie. Stop at the Nature Center to see the exhibits and get the latest info. Guided wildflower hikes are offered For flower chasers like me, 2019 was Staying on the path is also a safety March 6 and 14. the Super Bowl, Christmas issue. I hiked more than 800 miles of morning and Taco Tuesday all rolled Arizona trails last year and saw a Details: 14805 W. Vineyard into one. A wet winter produced a total of three rattlesnakes. All were Ave., Goodyear. $7 per vehicle. 623- bounty of spring blooms across the in March, while I was on wildflower 932- Arizona desert unlike anything seen hikes. This is the season snakes are 3811, www.maricopacountyparks.net for quite a while. most active. Stay on a clear path . where you can see around your feet.
Superbloom years are extremely rare Start wading into the greenery or so its unlikely we would have them climbing over boulders and you South Mountain Park Plenty of spring visitors flock to the in back-to-back springs. Yet we may make yourself more vulnerable. long flowing ridgeline of South be poised to beat the odds. Early Mountain Park for vibrant color. Try indications point to another Now, here are some of the best the easy Bajada Trail, which parallels excellent year for wildflowers. And places to see spring wildflowers San Juan Road at the base of the nothing could make me happier. throughout metro Phoenix. Gila Range. It’s known for carpets of My Facebook and Twitter feeds poppies and the small-blossomed from late winter into spring are White Tank Mountain Regional bladderpod after wet winters. almost solid wildflowers. I am Park Another option is climbing the north obsessed with desert blooms and Farmlands in the West Valley come face of South Mountain on the make no apologies for it. There is to an abrupt end, breaking against Ranger Trail, where the slopes are magic in these ethereal beauties. the wall of White Tank Mountain often streaked with an assortment of They are ground-level fireworks, a Regional Park. Flowers got an early flowers. spill of neon and a fleetingly joyous start early in this 30,000-acre park. welcome mat in these arid lands. Poppies, desert lavender, lupines, Details: 10919 S. Central Ave.,
wild geraniums, buckwheat, Phoenix. See website for other One of the great pleasures of being a fleabane and combseed are already in entrances and trailheads. Free. 602- desert dweller is spending a 70- bloom. Rangers predict an early and 262-7393, www.phoenix.gov/parks. degree winter day standing amid a
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afford tremendous views back the lake, a wonderful place to be on McDowell Sonoran Preserve toward Phoenix and farther east to a warm March day. More than 200 miles of trails fan out the rolling waves of the Goldfield across Scottsdale’s McDowell and Superstition mountains. Hike Details: Rattlesnake Cove is 21 miles Sonoran Preserve. You’re likely to the slopes to Wind Cave and Pass east of Carefree. An $8 Tonto Day find an array of blooms along many Mountain to admire the best Pass is required. See the website for of them this spring. Here are a few panoramas while wading through directions to the lake and a list of that already bear a reputation as bands of flowers. Rangers will Tonto Pass vendors. 480-595- reliable wildflower hotspots: conduct a wildflower walk on March 3300, www.fs.usda.gov/tonto. Taliesin Overlook (Lost Dog 4. Trailhead). Meet Roger Naylor Marcus Landslide Trail (Tom's Details: 3939 N. Usery Pass Road, Attend a talk by The Arizona Thumb Trailhead). Mesa. $7 per vehicle. 480-984- Republic’s own travel expert and Cone Mountain Loop (Brown’s 0032, www.maricopacountyparks.net author Roger Naylor this month. Ranch Trailhead). . He’ll be discussing his latest book, Granite Mountain Loop (Granite "Arizona State Parks: A Guide to Mountain Trailhead). Lake Pleasant Amazing Places in the Grand See trailhead locations on the There’s always a bit of magic where Canyon State." There will be a website, and check the online desert and water meet. Add flowers PowerPoint photo presentation, calendar for guided hikes offered to the mix and that’s a great way to Q&A and book signing. All talks are through mid-April. spend a day. At Lake Pleasant free to attend. Details: Free. 480-312- Regional Park, the heaviest 7013, www.mcdowellsonoran.org. concentration of poppies can be Sierra Vista: 12:10 p.m. Wednesday, found on Pipeline Canyon Trail, Feb. 26. Cochise College Downtown These parks have the best displays of especially from the southern Center, 2600 E. Willcox Drive. 520- poppies, lupines, globe mallow and trailhead to the floating bridge a 515-5492. other springtime flowers. Jill half-mile away. The bridge is Coolidge: Noon Saturday, Feb. Cassidy/azcentral.com guarded by some extremely robust 29. Casa Grande Ruins National globemallows the size of landscape Monument, 11 W. Ruins Drive, 520- Cave Creek Regional Park shrubs. A nice assortment of blooms 723-3172, www.nps.gov/cagr. Sitting at a slightly higher elevation, also lines the Beardsley, Wild Burro the wildflower season may begin a and Cottonwood trails. Wildflower Chandler: 11 a.m. Saturday, March bit later at Cave Creek Regional hikes will be held March 6 and 13. 7. Sibley’s West, 72 S. San Marcos Park. Ranger-led hikes take place Place. 480-899- every Thursday in March. But don’t Details: 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs 4480, www.sibleyswest.com. wait too late. If temperatures heat Road, Morristown. $7 per vehicle. Sierra Vista: 1 p.m. Tuesday, March up, it could be a short wildflower 928-501- 10. Sierra Vista Public Library, 2600 season. 1710, www.maricopacountyparks.net E. Tacoma St. 520-458-4225. . Find the reporter Details: 37900 E. Cave Creek at www.rogernaylor.com. Or follow Parkway, Cave Creek. $7 per vehicle. Bartlett Lake him on Facebook 623-465- The road to Bartlett Lake quickly at www.facebook.com/RogerNaylori 0431, www.maricopacountyparks.net leaves suburbs behind and winds nAZ or Twitter @AZRogerNaylor. . past rolling hills to the sparkling reservoir cradled by mountains. Peralta Park and More: Usery Mountain Regional Park Poppies and lupines were especially Hillsides here were blanketed with profuse last year. I was there on Present and Planned wildflowers last spring and the stage March 10 and could not have timed Open Space and Trails seems to be set for a repeat it better. Be sure to keep an eye SALT Speakers Series Feb. 26th performance. Poppies, primrose, peeled for white poppies; this is a Feb 18, 2020 Updated Feb 18, 2020 lupines, rock daisies, fairy duster and good spot for them. Some of the the flame-orange tips of ocotillo add best flower sightings are along the drama to mountains that already road to Rattlesnake Cove. The Palo exhibit plenty on their own. The Verde Trail parallels the shoreline, Userys gain enough elevation to pinning hikers between flowers and
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Mountains. When completed, the Press Release 100 miles of the Trail within the Feb. 11, 2020 at 10:38 AM county will connect the communities of Red Rock, Eloy, Coolidge, PHOENIX — Arizona’s own, Huss Florence and Apache Junction. Plans Brewing Co. is proud to announce call for the Trail to be constructed it’s rolling out two new IPA craft along the entire 336 mile length of beers, Hopaloosa Hazy and Papago the canal, making it the second- Desert Sage Orange, as well as the longest in the state. return of the seasonal, community- grown CenPho Citrus IPA. The county’s Open Space and Trails Combined with Huss’ flagship Master Plan, which is part of its IPA, Copper State, and this Tempe- Comprehensive Plan, guides the based brewery now offers multiple work of the Open Space and Trails wildly unique, and distinctly Arizona As one of the fastest growing Department – which has only been twists on the nation’s most popular counties in the state, Pinal County in existence a few short years. In craft beer style, the India Pale Ale. has impressive plans for addition, there is an Advisory development of regional parks and Commission to advise and make Handcrafted by Brewmaster Jeff trails. Kent Taylor, director of the recommendation to the department Huss and Head Brewer Matt Open Space and Trails Department, and to the Pinal County Supervisors. Johnson, each of these new IPAs has is responsible for, not only a unique flavor profile, and implementing these plans, but Kent Taylor is an avid hiker and interesting backstory, including the managing the county’s existing mountain biker, completing the all-new Papago Desert Sage Orange inventory. entirety of the Arizona National IPA, which was designed in Scenic Trail. He is a Certified Park collaboration with the Aravaipa Trail Mr. Taylor will present at the SALT and Recreation Professional through Runners for their annual Javelina Speakers Series Feb. 26th at 6:30 the National Park and Recreation Jundred, a 100-mile/100-kilometer p.m. in the Apache Junction Multi- Association. Prior to joining Pinal trail run. Generational Center, 1035 N. Idaho County in 2006, he was a small Rd., Rm. B-117. business owner for 16 years. “Brewed with orange zest, plus a hint of sage and agave to represent The series is co-sponsored by the Taylor’s volunteer involvement the authentic flavors and aromas of Superstition Area Land Trust includes: Current member, Arizona the Arizona desert, the Papago (SALT) and the Apache Junction Outdoor Coordinating Commission; Desert Sage Orange IPA (6.5% Parks & Recreation Department. current Board Member, Arizona ABV| 69 IBUs) was inspired by Talks are held on most 2nd and 4th Heritage Alliance; current Board Aravaipa’s annual trail run through Wednesdays, October-April. ALL Member and past President and Scottsdale’s McDowell Mountains,” are free and geared for the public. Treasurer, Arizona Trail Association; Jeff Huss says. past Chairman, city of Casa Grande Among topics he will cover are Parks and Recreation Advisory Hosted every Halloween, the race current status and plans for nearby Commission and past Chairman, takes runners from the northeast Peralta Regional Park and Lost Arizona State Committee on Trails. Valley’s historic citrus groves to the Goldmine Trail; Palo Verde Regional desert-sage-dotted foothills of the Park near Maricopa; San Tan Mr. Taylor earned a MPA from Troy McDowell Mountain Regional Regional Park; the 50 miles of the University and a BS and MS degree Park. A uniquely Arizona experience Arizona National Scenic Trail within from Northern Arizona University. that anyone can now recreate simply the county; four community parks SALT is a 501(c)3 nonprofit by popping open a can of Huss and West Pinal Park near Stanfield. organization. You can learn more beer. Huss’ first-ever hazy-style IPA, about us, what we do, and how to the Hopaloosa Hazy IPA (6.6% The opening of the first segment of join and/or contribute at azsalt.org. ABV | 38 IBUs) is double dry the CAP National Recreation Trail – hopped to create a bold brew worthy 10.5 miles north from the of its namesake, the Native Pinal/Pima border – has afforded Huss Brewing Co. American Appaloosa horse. non-motorized trail users views of Releases 2 New the Tortolita and Picacho IPAs Page 6
Press Coverage February 2020
Referring to hops added to the beer Feb 21, 2020 10:14 am MT after the initial fermentation is Bike MS: Arizona is one of nearly 70 complete, Huss’ version is double rides across the country. This year, dry hopped with Falconer’s Flight, more than 80,000 people are Amarillo and Citra hops to add expected to participate in Bike MS aromatics of orange, tangerine and nationwide. Each cyclist at Bike MS: pineapple, accompanied by flavors Arizona commits to raising a of grapefruit and guava. minimum of $250 dollars. Nationally, Bike MS cyclists, Plus, February also marks the return volunteers, and donors have raised of Huss’ seasonal CenPho Citrus more than $1.3 billion since the first IPA (6.5% ABV | 48 IBUs), ride in 1980, which goes toward brimming with fresh lemon, research for a cure as well as grapefruit and orange and other programs to help those with MS live homegrown backyard citrus It's a part of the largest fundraising their best lives today. collected from the historic bike series in the world. (Renee neighborhoods surrounded Huss’ Schiavone/Patch) WHEN: Begins at 7am on Saturday, Taproom in Uptown Phoenix. March 28 and ends approximately Created in partnership with Phoenix PHOENIX, AZ — Over 300 12:00pm noon on Sunday, March 29, City Councilwoman, Laura Pastor, cyclists will attempt to raise $210,000 2020 who represents District 4, home to and ride up to 150 miles over two WHERE: Start and finish at both Huss’ Uptown Taproom, and days in the annual Bike MS: McDowell Mountain Regional Park the state’s first-ever experimental Arizona to rally around a cure for (16300 McDowell Mountain Park citrus trees (planted circa 1895), multiple sclerosis (MS)—a Drive, Fountain Hills, AZ 85264) every winter Huss invites the neurological disease affecting nearly community to participate in crafting 1 million people living in the U.S., WHY BIKE MS: Bike MS brings this truly community-brewed IPA by which currently has no known cause people together as individuals and as donating citrus in exchange for two or cure. Bike MS: Arizona, hosted by teams for an extraordinary free pints sample at the annual Huss the National Multiple Sclerosis experience while raising money to Citrus Fest at Uptown Plaza (Feb 15, Society, will depart from McDowell make a difference in the lives of 2020). Mountain Regional Park on people affected by MS. March 28 –including options to ride Not to mention Huss’ within the park, off-road mountain PARTICIPATION/ VOLUNTEER flagship Copper State IPA (6.5% biking, or road routes—and REGISTRATION: bikeMS.org, ABV | 69 IBUs), available all-year- conclude at McDowell Mountain 855-372-1331 round it’s a celebration of all things Regional Park on March 29. or [email protected]. Arizona thanks to a blend of bold Participants will camp in the park Bike MS hops and juicy yet dry tropical fruit throughout the event, with festivities PSAs: https://www.nationalmssocie flavors for a truly balanced, like live music, beer garden, and an ty.org/About-the-Society/Press- enjoyable IPA. Now available at entire rider village occurring at the Room/PSAs your favorite bars and restaurants park throughout the weekend. Valley-wide, as well as the Huss Primal is the Premier National taprooms in Tempe and Phoenix, "It's incredibly powerful to watch Sponsor of Bike MS and the official Huss Brewing is also available at hundreds of people ride 100 miles National Cycling Apparel Sponsor. select grocery and convenience for a cause," said Karen LaPolice Primal also sponsors "I Ride with stores across Arizona. Cummins, President, National MS MS," a special program recognizing Society, Arizona. "MS is a disease Bike MS cyclists living with the that, although nearly 1 million disease. Left Hand Brewing is the Hundreds To Cycle Americans live with the neurological National Sponsor of Bike MS. Bike To Fight MS disease, most people don't know or MS Arizona is locally presented by Bike MS: Arizona, hosted by the understand what MS is. Bike MS Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Arizona: Endeavor in the Desert is Other Local sponsors include Point is running the event. our way of shining some awareness B, Arizona Wilderness Brewing By Press Release Desk, News on MS, because it's going to take all Company, and BJ's Restaurant & Partner of us to find a cure." Brewhouse.
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County's application for a Land and To experience Bike MS, check out Water Conservation grant, February Valley 101: Why do this 13, 2020. Arizona mountains video: https://youtu.be/9yzv6GOz8 The project, set in the shadows of oA. the Superstition Mountains and have letters on described as a spectacular natural them? About Multiple Sclerosis jewel on the outer edge of the WHAT'S THE STORY BEHIND Multiple sclerosis is an Phoenix area, will now move to the THE "PHOENIX" SIGN ON unpredictable, often disabling final design phase, with construction USERY MOUNTAIN IN MESA? disease of the central nervous targeted to get underway later this OR "A" MOUNTAIN AND "S" system. There is currently no cure year. MOUNTAIN? VALLEY 101 DIGS for MS. Symptoms vary from person IN. to person and range from numbness The grant, which amounts to Taylor Seely, The Republic | and tingling, to mobility challenges, $2,051,203.50, will be matched azcentral.com blindness and paralysis. An equally by the County and means the Published 6:00 a.m. MT Feb. 17, estimated 1 million people live with project is now fully funded. 2020 | Updated 6:20 a.m. MT Feb. MS in the United States. Most 17, 2020 people are diagnosed between the "Securing this LWCF grant is a ages of 20 and 50 and it affects critical component to beginning the There are at least seven mountains in women three times more than men. final design and development of this Maricopa County with letters fantastic recreational resource," decorating the side. Have you ever About the National Multiple commented Kent Taylor, Pinal wondered why they were put in? Or Sclerosis Society County's Open Space and Trails when? The National MS Society, founded Director. "We greatly appreciate the in 1946, funds cutting-edge research, assistance of both Arizona State We'll give you one hint: It comes drives change through advocacy, and Parks and Trails staff and the down to more than just community provides programs and services to Arizona State Parks Board for pride. help people affected by MS live their sharing our vision for the best lives. park. While we can't wait to finalize the design and begin construction, we are more excited about finally New Peralta being able to see residents and Regional Park visitors enjoying this park in the not too distant future." targets 2021 opening Plans for the 480-acre park, off of Pinal County News Peralta Road, include around 8 miles of multi-use trails, as well as areas Brennan Basler, aka "Ranger B," stands with Lucy SanTanValley.com Bentz, 12, at Usery Mountain Regional Park. Tuesday, 18 February 2020 for picnicking, camping and rock Ranger B shared the story behind the " will also allow it to feature a dark-sky This week, Valley 101 digs into the designation for night sky viewing. history behind the " Page 8 Press Coverage February 2020 Mountain Regional Park that's the height of the Eiffel Tower TAYLOR: The leader of that Boy with Maricopa County Parks and if you were to turn it up vertically. Scout troop was named Charlie Recreation. Merritt. TAYLOR: Ranger B has taken the Arizona State University archivist three of us past a no trespassing sign Brennan Basler: ] he thought to be Rob Spindler. to the base of the mountain. It’s really great to help pilots find guarded because, well… Ranger B Phoenix. My personal opinion about Sunnyslope Historical Society Vice Lucy and Paul at usery mtn this sign, my personal opinion is that President Pat Wilkinson. *gunshots* I would be nervous about getting on a plane with a pilot that needed this Listen to the episode: Brennan Basler: *laughs* gunshots. to find Phoenix. [00:09:45][13.2] T There's a gun range at the base of The best way to listen is to subscribe the Phoenix sign here. So that's why AYLOR: Let’s talk about that. to Valley 101 on your favorite we're on this side of the fence. Because Lucy also seemed a little podcast app, but you can also stream alarmed at the idea that pilots might the full episode below. TAYLOR: So while bullets were need mountain signs for navigation NOTE: Valley 101 is intended to be flying, Ranger B shared with us the heard. But we also offer a transcript story of the Usery mountain sign. Paul Bentz: [00:14:38] This thing was of the episode script. There may be built by teenagers. You're about to slight deviations from the podcast Brennan Basler: So the story behind be a teenager, Lucy. Do you think audio. the Phoenix sign here on the side of you'd spend five years moving rocks Usery Mountain is back in the 1950s. up a mountain like this? Part 1: Usery Mountain’s *50s style music* Lucy Bentz: No. I have better things “ Page 9 Press Coverage February 2020 are perfect for storing a boat, RV or the EPA’s Indoor airPLUS Maracay will open gear for an outdoor excursion or trip specifications and will feature water- Arroyo Seco in to nearby Lake Pleasant.” efficient fixtures, LED lighting, energy-efficient heating and cooling Buckeye Families can choose from five systems, Energy Star® appliances, REAL ESTATE | 13 Feb | AZ spacious, one- and two-story floor tankless water heaters, and Wi-Fi- BUSINESS MAGAZINE plans, ranging from approximately enabled, programmable thermostats. 2,695 to 4,347 square feet, and All homes will also be Energy Star® Maracay is unveiling its highly personalize each home with certified and feature the latest in anticipated Arroyo Seco residential Maracay’s Flex Design® options. smart home technology and community, located near the edge of Included options with these homes Maracay’s proprietary LivingSmart® the stunning White Tank Mountains are GE® stainless steel appliances, program for maximum performance in Buckeye, Arizona, on Saturday, granite kitchen countertops, gas and cost efficiency. Feb. 15. tankless water heaters and a detached casita option with a full For more information about Arroyo The grand opening event will include living and dining area, walk-in closet, Seco, please contact Maracay’s New a neighborhood gathering from 12-3 bedroom, bathroom and covered Homes Specialist Team p.m. and feature a catered lunch and porch. at [email protected] refreshments. Potential homebuyers m or by calling (480) 401-5620. are encouraged to attend the family- Beyond each home’s four walls, friendly event, explore the residents will find a community that community and learn all about the celebrates the outdoors with a 7 Spring Hikes That neighborhood and its amenities with centrally located park, complete with one of Maracay’s New Home Are Less Than An sports fields and plenty of open Advisors. space for the kids to roam and play. Hour's Drive From Volleyball and basketball courts, a Featuring a monumental entrance Phoenix tot lot, ramadas and community that sets the stage for a collection of Grab your BFF for some hiking fun. grills beckon neighbors outside for oversized homesites, Arroyo Seco Briana Renee Dahlberg afternoon barbecues, al fresco dining offers the intimacy of a private Updated on February 12 @ 11:36 and weekend get-togethers with neighborhood without forfeiting the AM friends and family. Nearby, benefits of an amenity-rich Maricopa County’s largest regional community. The largest homesites park, White Tank Mountain available offer more than one- Regional Park, offers 30,000 square quarter acre, which provide added feet of rugged and beautiful desert- elbow room between homes to mountain landscape featuring a maximize living space and privacy. range of outdoor activities, including Meanwhile, a majority of the tent or RV camping, picnicking, homesites are also strategically hiking and much more. Big-city There's no denying that springtime situated in a north/south orientation amenities are also just a short trip in the Grand Canyon State is our for cooler home interiors during the away via State Route 303 and favorite season of the year. warm summer months. Interstate 10, which puts Arroyo Blooming wildflowers and cool, Seco just 20 minutes from sunny weather are one of many “Arroyo Seco offers a selection of Downtown Phoenix. things to expect if you're looking for thoughtful home amenities designed the best hiking spots near Phoenix. to appeal to those who can’t get The homes at Arroyo Seco will be You can also bring your pet along on enough of the West Valley’s easy registered with the U.S. Green some of these trails too! If not, grab access to adventure. Outdoor lovers Building Council (USGBC), a third- your BFF instead. will enjoy the detached or attached party rating system that verifies RV garages and accessory buildings, compliance across several areas After a long, stressful week, there's while multi-generational families will addressing sustainability, with the nothing like a good ol' hike to relax fall in love with the detached casita goal of earning the LEED® us. Our list below includes some option,” said Maracay Project Certified designation. Designed to awesome spots you can visit with Development Manager Stephen use 30–50 percent less energy than friends, family or by yourself. Burris. “The detached or attached typical homes, each home will meet RV garages and accessory buildings Page 10 Press Coverage February 2020 If you're a major history buff, our list has a couple of hidden trails where you can see petroglyphs. We promise they're worth a visit. Whether you're a Phoenix local or just passing through, these mini- adventures are less than an hour from the Valley. Sunrise Trail Difficulty: Moderate Length: Approx. 3.6-miles roundtrip Address: 12101 N. 145th Way, Scottsdale, AZ Summit Trail Why You Need To Go: With Difficulty: Moderate to difficult amazing scenic views, this is a great Length: Approx. 1.2-miles roundtrip place to hike after a week of work. Address: 2701 E. Squaw Peak Dr., Apache Wash Loop Phoenix, AZ Difficulty: Easy Why You Need To Go: You might Length: Approx. 5.6-miles roundtrip sweat a little to get panoramic views Address: 1600 E. Sonoran Desert of the city below. It's definitely Dr., Phoenix, AZ worth it though. Why You Need To Go: Grab your pals and your favorite mountain bike for this trail. You'll get the most amazing desert and cactus views. Roadrunner Trail Difficulty: Easy Length: Approx. 1.5-miles Address: Lake Pleasant Regional Park, AZ Mormon Trail Why You Need To Go: This easy Difficulty: Moderate trail overlooks the lake and will lead Length: Approx. 1.2-miles roundtrip you to a picnic area. Grab your camera, BFF, and pack a lunch for a Address: 8610 S. 24th St., Phoenix, AZ Echo Canyon Trail day at Lake Pleasant. Why You Need To Go: You'll be Difficulty: Difficult Website able to walk through a natural Length: Approx. 2.4-miles roundtrip Hieroglyphic Trail Address: 4925 E. McDonald Dr., Difficulty: Easy to moderate tunnel. If you look closely, you can spot some petroglyphs too. Phoenix, AZ Length: Approx. 3-miles roundtrip Why You Need To Go: This summit Address: Apache Junction, AZ hike in the city will give you 360- Why You Need To Go: Towards the degree sights of the Valley. Why not end of the path, you'll be able to see stop by for a romantic sunset hike? Native American petroglyphs. Talk about a glimpse into the past! Page 11 Press Coverage February 2020 has been certified as a Boston control supervisor Craig Brisbois Marathon qualifier. told ABC15. The marathon, beginning in Usery The marathon starts at Usery Mountain Regional Park and Mountain Regional Park in east ending at Mesa Riverview, will close Mesa and ends at Mesa Riverview major intersections and restrict shopping area at Alma School Road traffic from the early morning just north of Rio Salado Parkway. through approximately 1 p.m. Saturday. Some streets along the route will be closed starting at 4 a.m. and will Brisbois said after hearing from reopen as the race progresses. All residents in years past, the city streets are expected to be reopened launched an interactive map online by 1:30 p.m. and is offering a phone number for anyone who is traveling in the city to For a detailed map of street closures receive one-on-one rerouting go to gis.mesaaz.gov/mesamarathon. assistance. Traffic employees will be in communication with police and We strongly advise that before you Details: mesamarathon.com. race organizers throughout the go swimming or visit any location, marathon to pass along updates as you check the most recent updates intersections and roads reopen. on potential hazards, security, water Mesa offering quality, and closures. If you do plan rerouting assistance "Obviously we really try to to visit a location, respect the encourage people to get away from environment. ahead of Saturday's the race route because as you get 2020 Sprouts Mesa more traffic towards the route, it gets very congested," he said. Watch out for these Marathon marathon-related Posted: 4:28 AM, Feb 07, 2020 To view the map, click here. Updated: 6:42 AM, Feb 08, 2020 road closures in For assistance over the phone now Mesa on Saturday through the end of the race, call 480- 644-4882. Weldon B. Johnson, Arizona Republic Published 7:00 a.m. MT Feb. 7, 2020 St. Joseph the | Updated 8:57 a.m. MT Feb. 7, Worker hosts 22nd 2020 annual Hike for the A marathon expected to draw Homeless thousands of runners could snarl traffic in parts of Mesa on the fundraiser morning of Saturday, Feb. 8. Proceeds help individuals By: John Genovese experiencing homelessness or More than 10,500 runners are hardship find self-sufficiency MESA, AZ — More than 7,000 through quality employment expected to take part in the ninth runners are expected to take part in annual Sprouts Mesa Posted Friday, February 7, 2020 1:30 Saturday's 2020 Sprouts Mesa pm Marathon. Races — there are a half Marathon and the city is offering marathon, 10K and kids 1K in Independent Newsmedia resources for people who aren't addition to the full marathon — running to plan ahead of road begin at 6:30 a.m. and last until At 8 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, St. closures. Joseph the Worker will kick off the about 12:30 p.m. 22nd annual Hike for the Homeless "During the marathon we essentially fundraiser at McDowell Mountain Runners from 20 countries and all cut the City of Mesa in half," traffic 50 states have registered. The race Regional Park in Fountain Hills. Page 12 Press Coverage February 2020 For over 30 years, SJW’s sole For more information or to register the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak mission has been to assist for the hike, visit sjwjobs.org. Resort and the Pointe Hilton economically deprived individuals Tapatio Cliffs Resort, sister become self-sufficient with the properties that make it easy to support needed to secure quality DESERT DIAMONDS traverse the valley by car. I like employment. SEE 15 MLB TEAMS AT SPRING visiting different ballparks so that I TRAINING IN THE GREATER can enjoy fish tacos and craft beer Proceeds from the hike will directly PHOENIX AREA from the Pacific Northwest while fund this mission. In fiscal year 18- February 7, 2020By MeLinda watching a Seattle Mariners game at 19, Hike for the Homeless helped Schnyder the Peoria Sports Complex one day put nearly 3,681 people experiencing I’m not sure that baseball is my then enjoy barbecue and a Boulevard economic hardship back to work, favorite sport (I’m looking at you, beer while catching a Kansas City according to a press release. college football), but hands down my Royals game at the Surprise Stadium favorite season is spring training. the next day. Brent Downs, SJW executive director, says the organization gives It’s a great reason to escape Kansas Lawn seating at most parks starts people a hand-up, not a hand-out. for Arizona to enjoy temperatures in around $10 per ticket, and reserved the 70s and see Major League seating varies by team and whether “St. Joseph the Worker is 100 Baseball players in small venues you’re seeing a standard or premium percent community funded, which without spending a fortune on matchup. Tickets are already on sale means our success depends on the tickets—and there’s plenty of time online or you can purchase at the generous support from the to visit nearby attractions or enjoy gate, but keep in mind that rivalries, community. By supporting this resort amenities because all of the and many Chicago Cubs games, sell event, you’re empowering Cactus League’s ballparks are out. Visit the websites below for individuals who are experiencing concentrated in the greater Phoenix each team to see schedules and homelessness or hardship to become area. promotions, find out which seats self-sufficient through quality offer shade, when open practices employment allowing them to turn Fifteen major league teams play take place, where to line up for their lives around and be something more than 200 games here during autographs, and any special fan great.” the monthlong spring training; the experiences available. seventy-third Cactus League season Registered hikers will have the runs February 21 through March 24 Milwaukee Brewers option between a 1.5-mile or 4.5- (in one of the earliest opening days Fly in: American Family Fields of mile hike and will receive a trendy on record, the 2020 MLB regular Phoenix is 10 miles southeast Hike for the Homeless bandanna. In season starts March 26 for all 30 of Glendale Municipal Airport, 12 addition, attendees will be treated to teams). Most games are played at 1 miles northwest of Phoenix Sky free breakfast burritos from San Tan p.m. to take advantage of the Harbor International Airport, 15 Brewing Company. sunshine and warm daytime miles northeast of Phoenix temperatures. That makes it hard to Goodyear Airport, and 18 miles SJW is the conduit to connect job see more than one game a day, south of Phoenix Deer Valley seekers to jobs, building on existing though there are a few night games Airport. strengths and reducing or played each week; we’ve managed to eliminating any barriers to see five games in four days on Near: Renovations to transform employment. Their proven several trips. Maryvale Baseball Park into employment model provides one- American Family Fields of Phoenix on-one support, computer and Half the stadiums are in the west earned Ballpark Digest’s 2019 internet access, professional valley and half in the east valley. You Ballpark Renovation of the Year. clothing, resume development, mock can choose to fly in to the airport You can see displays outside the interviews, financial coaching, closest to your favorite team’s home park honoring players with retired certification and licensure fees, tools, field and base yourself at one numbers (added during the safety equipment, and the stadium, or you can stay in a central renovation), but otherwise you’ll transportation needed to obtain and location and visit as many of the 10 need to head back to Phoenix sustain employment. stadiums as you can manage. (downtown is 8 miles away) or one of the other suburbs for attractions. On our last two spring training pilgrimages, we’ve stayed at Page 13 Press Coverage February 2020 Chicago White Sox and Los Angeles Arizona, with a mix of outdoor Near: You’ll be within walking Dodgers activities and museums. Aviation distance of Old Town Scottsdale, enthusiasts might enjoy the Arizona full of restaurants, shops, and hotels. Fly in: Camelback Ranch-Glendale is Commemorative Air Force Museum, Also enjoy Camelback Mountain and 6 miles south of Glendale Municipal less than 10 miles east of the Desert Botanical Garden and other Airport, 10 miles northeast stadium. attractions at Papago Park. of Phoenix Goodyear Airport, 21 miles northwest of Phoenix Sky More information: A’s spring More information: Giants spring Harbor International Airport, and 23 training, Mesa training, Scottsdale miles southwest of Phoenix Deer Valley Airport. Seattle Mariners and San Diego Chicago Cubs Padres Fly in: Sloan Park in Mesa is 7 miles Near: The new Ballpark Boulevard Fly in: Peoria Sports Complex in east of Phoenix Sky Harbor connects the stadium complex to Peoria is 10 miles northeast International Airport, 17 miles south Glendale’s Westgate Entertainment of Glendale Municipal Airport, 12 of Scottsdale Airport, and 25 miles District, Tanger Outlets, the miles west of Phoenix Deer Valley northwest of Phoenix-Mesa Gateway National Hockey League’s Arizona Airport, and 20 miles northeast Airport. Coyotes’ arena (their season of Phoenix Goodyear Airport. coincides with spring training), and Near: The stadium is adjacent to Topgolf. Near: Across the street is P83, an Riverview Park complex with rock- entertainment district with more climbing walls, water features, and More information: White Sox spring than 20 restaurants and bars as well play equipment; Sheraton Mesa training, Dodgers spring as entertainment like Modern Hotel at Wrigleyville West; and Mesa training, Glendale Round, a virtual shooting lounge; Riverview open-air shopping center golf; and land and water activities at featuring dining, shopping, and Cleveland Indians and Cincinnati Lake Pleasant. entertainment. Reds Fly in: Goodyear Ballpark in More information: Mariners spring More information: Cubs spring Goodyear is 3 miles west of Phoenix training, Padres spring training, Mesa Goodyear Airport, 13 miles training, Peoria southwest of Glendale Municipal Kansas City Royals and Texas Airport, 21 miles east of Buckeye Arizona Diamondbacks and Rangers Municipal Airport, and 25 miles west Colorado Rockies Fly in: Surprise Stadium in Surprise of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Fly in: Salt River Fields at Talking is 11 miles northwest of Glendale Airport. Stick in Scottsdale is 8 miles south Municipal Airport, 15 miles north of Scottsdale Airport and 14 miles of Phoenix Goodyear Airport, and Near: Explore mountains and desert northeast of Phoenix Sky Harbor 21 miles west of Phoenix Deer at Estrella Mountain Regional International Airport. Valley Airport. Park; go horseback riding; and Near: Take in the Great Wolf Lodge; peruse public art exhibits. Talking Stick Resort, featuring a Near: Surprise is the farthest casino and golf club; Topgolf; northwest of the stadiums (Peoria is More information: Indians spring OdySea Aquarium; and Medieval 10 miles to the east). The town has training, Reds spring Times Dinner and Tournament. golf courses, shopping, art galleries, training, Goodyear More information: Diamondbacks and a performing arts venue. spring training, Rockies spring Oakland Athletics training, Scottsdale More information: Royals spring Fly in: Hohokam Stadium in Mesa is training, Rangers spring 11 miles east of Phoenix Sky Harbor San Francisco Giants training, Surprise International Airport, 13 miles north Fly in: Scottsdale Stadium in of Chandler Municipal Airport, 19 Scottsdale is 7 miles northeast Los Angeles Angels miles south of Scottsdale Airport, of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Fly in: Tempe Diablo Stadium in and 22 miles northwest of Phoenix- Airport and 10 miles south Tempe is 4 miles southeast Mesa Gateway Airport. of Scottsdale Airport. of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, 20 miles northwest Near: Mesa is the third largest city in of Chandler Municipal Airport, and Page 14 Press Coverage February 2020 25 miles south of Scottsdale Airport. County. That’s saying something study of our parks’ economic impact since Maricopa County is the fastest- conducted by Arizona State Near: Tempe is one of the most growing county in the nation. University found that every dollar centrally located parks in the valley, invested in the county park system and the city hosts the Innings Buckeye’s population is up 60 returns $1.42 in economic impact to Festival February 29 through March percent in the past decade and more the region. 1 at Tempe Beach Park and Arts than 7 percent in just the past year. Park with national headlining bands Surprise and Avondale each grew by This year, we’ll begin phase one of and appearances by MLB legends. about 2.5 percent over the past year, the new 71,000-acre Vulture and many other West Valley cities Mountain Recreation Area near More information: Angels spring topped the average statewide Wickenburg. When the park is training, Tempe population growth of 1.6 percent. completed, it will have the county’s first formal off-highway vehicle The good news is we’re not just recreation area and provide quality Letter from Clint getting more people; we’re adding amenities and training opportunities Hickman, District 4 jobs and building infrastructure so for this popular sport. families can thrive. I want that Chairman, Maricopa growth to continue. Maricopa County needs well- County Board of managed open space like our That’s why I’ve asked my colleagues regional parks now and for future Supervisors to stand with me and approve a new generations. Working with our February 5, 2020 FoothillsFocus moratorium on government rules Parks Department has been one of and regulations so that we are the great pleasures of my service on PHOENIX – You may have heard I working with businesses rather than the board and will be a priority of got a promotion of sorts. This year, against them. I believe we can do mine in 2020. I’ll be leading the Maricopa County this while also protecting public Board of Supervisors as Chairman. health, safety and the environment. With all that said, I still believe the most important thing we’ll do as a In many ways, it’s like being the I’m also encouraging our county in 2020 is to plan and run captain of a ship that has already departments to expand their elections. The Board of Supervisors charted a good course. I’m there at outreach efforts to local vendors, so partnered with the Maricopa County the wheel, looking out for rocks, we get a greater variety of bids for Recorder’s Office last year to ensure ready to make small adjustments county contracts. When more joint oversight of elections not seen here or there; but thanks to the vendors bid, residents get better in the county in more than 50 years. strong leadership of previous service and we can keep more jobs The board now oversees election- chairmen of the board, I don’t see local. day activities and emergency voting, the need for major course while the recorder is responsible for corrections. However, growth can have voter registration and early voting. consequences, as anyone who These duties align with what is I’m honored my colleagues chose commutes with me on the I-10 written state law. me for this role in such an important knows. That’s why I support the This year, the Board of Supervisors year for our region, and I wanted to work being done by my colleague, invested millions of dollars in new share my vision for the county as a Jack Sellers, and others to create a technology to ensure ballots are whole – and the West Valley in comprehensive regional counted accurately and as quickly as particular – in 2020. transportation plan to replace Prop possible. In recent weeks, we’ve 400. We need a plan that considers been able to show this new As a county government, our job is the impact of future growth, factors equipment to state legislators, so not to solve every problem or be in new technology and balances it all they understand how it works. The involved in every issue; it’s to bring with the diverse needs of our people, goal with any piece of technology stability to a diverse and dynamic many of whom live here because should be to improve outcomes, and region. It’s to make this a place they like a more rural lifestyle. I believe the new machines will serve where prosperity lasts and voters better than the outdated vote- democracy flourishes. Nowhere is Protecting open space is another way tabulation equipment we previously that more important than in the we can improve quality of life at a had. West Valley, which is growing faster time of incredible growth. A recent than any other part of Maricopa Page 15 Press Coverage February 2020 Knowing when and where to vote Clint Hickman, District 4, Chairman living spaces with contemporary has never been easier. The Maricopa Maricopa County Board of characteristics, open areas and a County Elections Department Supervisors variety of structural options, recently launched a new website www.maricopa.gov/dist4 including an executive kitchen, an which provides a personalized (602) 506-7642 extended master bedroom and an dashboard so you have everything enhanced indoor-outdoor living you need to know to make your vote environment, among many other count at your fingertips. Maracay will unveil choices. 118 homesites at BeBallotReady.Vote allows you to Meanwhile, Pathfinder South will make changes to personal voter Spur Cross in Queen offer the second-largest homesites information, learn which upcoming Creek available at Spur Cross, measuring elections you’re eligible to vote in, REAL ESTATE | 5 Feb | AZ up to over one-quarter of an acre at find voting locations, sign up for text BUSINESS MAGAZINE many of the 53 available sites. The alerts, explore the new ballot style neighborhood will feature four (you’ll fill in ovals instead of arrows) Maracay will celebrate the highly- distinct, all-single-story Flex Design and much more. In short, it’s a one- anticipated grand opening of two floor plans, with attached RV stop shop for voters unlike anything new East Valley neighborhoods – garages as an included offering in the county has provided before. Pathfinder North and Pathfinder two plans, and plenty of indoor- South – both situated inside Spur outdoor space for all plans, allowing Remember, the Presidential Cross, a master-planned community families to stretch out and play to Preference Election (PPE) is March located in Queen Creek, just their hearts’ content. Ranging from 17. Only registered Democrats are northeast of Signal Butte and approximately 2,695 to 3,679 square eligible to vote. Since this election is Ocotillo roads, on Saturday, Feb. 8. feet, the homes at Pathfinder South not a primary, registered will also offer customizable options, independents are not eligible to The grand opening event will include including generation suites and participate. The Republican and a neighborhood gathering from 12-3 casitas with separate entrances. Libertarian parties have chosen not p.m. and feature a catered lunch and to hold a preference election. You refreshments. Prospective home “When Arizona homebuyers choose can read about our plan to inform shoppers are encouraged to attend a home at our Pathfinder and support voters in the PPE by the family-friendly event and explore neighborhoods at Spur Cross, visiting Maricopa.gov/2020PPEPlan. the community with one of they’re not only moving to one of Maracay’s New Home Advisors to the Valley’s most sought after And don’t worry. Everyone will have learn all about the neighborhood and regions, but also getting a beautifully a chance to cast their vote (multiple its amenities. designed, premium home that times) in 2020. I am doing features some pretty special Flex everything in my power to make sure Boasting the largest homesites (up to Design® options including a the experience is a good one for all one-third of an acre) available at detached cabana and an RV garage voters in Maricopa County, whether Spur Cross, Pathfinder North will option with a mini-split AC unit ,” you vote early or on election day, in offer 65 oversized homesites Andy Warren, Maracay’s president, person or by mail. comfortably distributed throughout said. “And, the benefits don’t end the neighborhood for added privacy there. In fact, Spur Cross features a Government’s role should be to and additional elbow room between number of parks, a community pool, build communities where individuals homes. The quiet, gated enclave will multiple walking trails and of course have the opportunity to create a feature four all-single-story Flex easy access to iconic Arizona high-quality life knowing that their Design® floor plans, two of which destinations like San Tan Mountain government is spending their money will include detached RV garages as Regional Park.” in responsible ways that enhance a standard offering, providing health and safety and give residents a additional space for all of the The entire Spur Cross master- voice in the process. The year 2020 outdoor toys that active, growing planned community offers a wide is going to be a great year for families enjoy—or the ideal space selection of modern amenities that Maricopa County. for a specialized hobby. The homes today’s homebuyers love. Residents at Pathfinder North will range from enjoy the splendor-filled playground Thank you for the opportunity to approximately 3,220 to 4,287 square where they can relax, barbecue and serve. feet and will feature carefully crafted mingle with neighbors under the Page 16 Press Coverage February 2020 ramada; while active families and Maracay’s proprietary LivingSmart® http://www.phoenixchineseweek.or weekend warriors can explore the program for maximum performance g neighborhood via a multi-use trail and cost efficiency. system or challenge their neighbors Feb. 7-9 - SCOTTSDALE: to a friendly game of basketball or For more information about Spur Worldwide Women's Film Festival – sand volleyball on the courts. When Cross, please contact Maracay’s New Harkins Shea 14. The Worldwide the sun is shining, which is nearly Homes Specialist Team Women's Film Festival educates, every day in the beautiful Town of at [email protected] supports, and empowers women in Queen Creek, residents can spread m or by calling (480) 401-5620. the collaborative endeavor of out a blanket for a relaxing picnic at filmmaking while we shine a light on the 7-acre park or cool off at the women's stories and diverse community pool and its 2,280- Things to Do in the experiences. 602-525-3012 or square-foot cabana. Valley – Feb. 6-12 http://www.wwfilmfestival.com Posted Tuesday, February 4, Residents flock to this region of the 2020 11:55 pm Feb. 7-9 - SCOTTSDALE: 9th Valley for its multitude of shopping, Daily Independent Annual Waterfront Fine Art & Wine dining and high-performing schools, Festival - Scottsdale Waterfront. all just a short drive from Spur Below are entertainment options More than 125 juried fine artists will Cross. The buzzing community is around the Valley for the week of line the banks of the Scottsdale located in the heart of Queen Creek, Feb. 5-12. Waterfront, along with wineries and where residents enjoy a convenient Event details are subject to change. live musical entertainment. $3. 10 mix of city perks and rural comforts. a.m. – 5 p.m. 480-837-5637 or Nearby iconic attractions include Feb. 6 - SCOTTSDALE: Western https://thunderbirdartists.com San Tan Mountain Regional Park, Week Gold Palette ArtWalk - Schnepf Farms and the Queen Creek Featuring live music and artists’ Feb. 7-23 - PHOENIX: Trouble in Olive Mill. The community is also demonstrations, a multitude of Mind – Helen K. Mason Performing within close proximity to major East traditional and modern Western Arts Center. As the 1950s draw to a Valley employment centers and artwork will be on display close, a newly integrated theatre popular amenities, including Seville throughout the Scottsdale Arts company prepares to open a Golf & Country Club, the Mesquite District’s numerous galleries during progressive, but misguided new play Groves Aquatic Center, Horseshoe this Western Week kick-off event. on Broadway. This troubled Park & Equestrian Centre, movie This ArtWalk recognizes Scottsdale’s production of a fictional anti- theaters, parks, and much more. Wild West roots and its wide range lynching play will feature renowned of historical culture with Western- actress Wileta Mayer. 602-258-8129 The homes at Pathfinder North and themed entertainment and more. or http://new- Pathfinder South will be registered Free. 6:30-9:30 p.m. wp.blacktheatretroupe.org with the U.S. Green Building https://scottsdalegalleries.com Council (USGBC), a third-party Feb. 7-23 - PHOENIX: The rating system that verifies Feb. 7-9 - PHOENIX: 30th Annual Princess and the Pea – Valley Youth compliance across several areas Chinese Week’s Culture and Cuisine Theatre. Princess Astrid has been addressing sustainability, with the Festival – Year of the Rat - Margaret lured from her home by Gustav the goal of earning the LEED® T. Hance Park (East). Enjoy Chinese Troll as a prospective bride for the Certified designation. Designed to cuisine, arts & crafts, Chinese bookish Prince Eric. Although this use 30–50 percent less energy than calligraphy, dragon and lion dances, feisty princess has no interest in typical homes, each home will meet Chinese costume photo booth, folk either marriage or princes, she the EPA’s Indoor airPLUS and traditional dances, mah-jongg spiritedly takes a series of tests to specifications and will feature water- booth, martial arts demos, musical prove that she is "a real princess." efficient fixtures, LED lighting, performances, Chinese Tea Despite the plotting of the oily energy-efficient heating and cooling Ceremony, photo exhibit, Koi-fish courtier, Osric, Astrid and Eric are systems, Energy Star® appliances, exhibit, chopstick pick up contest, drawn to each other out of respect tankless water heaters, and Wi-Fi- children’s hands-on activities and for the other's stubborn enabled, programmable thermostats. souvenirs. Free. Friday 9 a.m. – 3 individualism. However, before there Homes will also be Energy Star® p.m., Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. – may be a proper happy ending, certified and feature the latest in 5 pm., Beer Garden, Saturday and Astrid must pass a final test. $20. smart home technology and Sunday 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Page 17 Press Coverage February 2020 602-253-8188 or the nation for four years in a row. 252-8848 or https://www.vyt.com ASU Open Door welcomes visitors https://heard.org/event/hoop to our four campus locations, Feb. 8 - FOUNTAIN HILLS: 20th allowing visitors to explore spaces Feb. 8-9 - SCOTTSDALE: Arizona Annual Pemberton Trail 50K – that are normally closed to the Indian Festival – Scottsdale Civic McDowell Mountain Regional public. Visitors have the opportunity Center Park. This two-day family- Park. Pemberton Trail 50k and 25k to participate in hundreds of friendly event features Arizona tribes races are run completely on trails in interactive, hands-on activities and sharing cultural experiences, the beautiful McDowell Mountain talk to students, faculty and staff. traditional dwellings, art Regional Park near Fountain Hills, Free. 1-5 p.m. 480-965-1236 or demonstrations, Native American Arizona. With gently rolling hills (no https://opendoor.asu.edu storytelling, performances, music big climbs) you might set a PR here! and contemporary entertainment, an With our great volunteers, good Feb. 8 - PHOENIX: 20th Annual artisan market, Tribal and Tourism food, mild weather and fun, low-key Strong Beer Festival - Steele Indian Expo, food trucks and fry bread vibe, it’s always a great day in the School Park. Official launch of stands, giveaways, raffles and kids’ desert. Arizona Craft Beer Week and activities. This event is a http://www.bquickrunning.com Arizona’s premier craft beer festival. collaboration between the City of Focusing on beers “strong” in flavor Scottsdale and the majority of Indian Feb. 8 - FOUNTAIN HILLS: 7th and character from across the tribes in Arizona. Free. Sat 10 a.m. – Annual Concours in the Hills High- country. Draws visitors from across 6 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Performance and Classic Car Show - the state and country to Arizona. https://arizonaindiantourism.org Fountain Park. In 2019 the show Featuring strong beers, also offering attracted 941 cars and five tastes of other craft beer types and Feb. 8-9 - SCOTTSDALE: 9th helicopters including two USMC styles, music and food vendors. Annual Street Eats Food Truck attack helicopters. The show is not a More than 75 breweries. Festival - Salt River Fields. All of the formal “white gloves” concours but http://arizonabeerweek.com food trucks offer $2 samples of their rather a fun and relaxed car show homemade treats. Plus, between open to all makes and models. The Feb. 8 - SCOTTSDALE: 67th bites you can enjoy live music, food cars are organized by brand to Annual Scottsdale Parada Del Sol eating contests, and a massive kids encourage communication between Parade & Trails End Festival - A zone for a fun weekend celebration. owners. The show is supported by community celebration attracting $12-15. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. the leading car clubs of Arizona, more than 30,000 people and http://SaltRiverFields.com or both import and domestic. Free. 9 showcases the history, school http://www.streeteatsaz.com a.m. - 3 p.m. groups, bands, live musical https://www.concoursinthehills.org entertainment and shopping. Feb. 9 - MESA: Salt River Brass: All Experience Arizona's old west That Jazz – Mesa Arts Feb. 8 - MESA: Mesa-Phoenix entertainment. Starts at Indian Center. Picture 36 brass and Marathon – Mesa Riverview. Want School Rd to Oak St. on Scottsdale percussion virtuosi crafting the to go for a run? With the right Rd. Free. 9 a.m., followed by Trail's upbeat brilliance of a military band, training and commitment, you can End Festival. the full-throated sonorities of a find yourself fully prepared at the http://ScottsdaleParade.com symphony orchestra and the warm starting line of a 10K, half marathon intimate sounds of a chamber group. or the full 26.2 miles! Want to get Feb. 8-9 - PHOENIX: 30th Annual This is the Salt River Brass, with the the whole family involved? Our free World Championship Hoop Dance versatility to program everything 1K fun run will get the kids in on the Contest - Heard Museum. Top from light classics and marches to action too. $0-125. 6 a.m. American Indian and Canadian First show tunes, folk melodies and jazz https://thephoenixmarathon.com Nation hoop dancers vie for the title standards. 3 p.m. 480-644-6500 or of World Champion Hoop Dancer, https://mesaartscenter.com Feb. 8 - PHOENIX: ASU Open amazing performances of the Door 2020 – Downtown Phoenix – intertribal hoop dance where each Feb. 9-23 - SCOTTSDALE: 24th Once a year, ASU invites the local dancers weaves in aspects of his or Annual Greater Phoenix Jewish Film community, adults and children of her distinct tradition and culture, Festival - Valley wide at three all ages, to experience ASU and more than $30,000 in prize money, Harkins Theaters: Shea 14 in discover why it was named one of fry bread & other American Indian Scottsdale; Harkins Park West 14 in the most innovative universities in foods. $7.50-18. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 602- Peoria; and Harkins Tempe Page 18 Press Coverage February 2020 Marketplace 16 in Tempe. Films screen across the Valley at 3 and 7 p.m. Films aimed at both younger and older audiences. 602-753-9366 or https://www.gpjff.org Valentine's Day in Phoenix: Fun ideas for couples and Valentine’s Day at Taliesin West | singles Make a date out of visiting a national 6:00 a.m. MST Feb. 4, 2020 historic landmark nestled in the McDowell Mountains in Scottsdale. |Details: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Taliesin West, 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale. $65. 480-860-2700, franklloydwright.org. Valentines Super Love Jam | Soul trio The Temprees and vocal duo Peaches and Herb (the artists behind the famous "Reunited,") are set to take the stage at the Art Laboe Valentine's Super Love Jam Concert. 'Galentine's Day' Aerial | Details: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Valentine's with a View |At the Yoga | Experience aerial yoga with Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. your closest friends, or perhaps meet "Valentine's with a View" event, four Jefferson St., Phoenix. From $30.50. renowned local chefs will serve a some new ones, at a special 602-379- five-course, chocolate-themed meal. "Galentine's Day" class at Elevate 2000, www.talkingstickresortarena.co Yoga & Wellness. | Details: 5:45 | Details: 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. m. The Stewart, 800 N. Central Ave., p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13. Elevate Yoga & Wellness, 1001 N. Third Phoenix. $159 for dinner, $199 for Ave., Phoenix. $28 for studio dinner and wine members, $40 for nonmembers, $50 pairings. www.eventbrite.com. at the door. 602-456- 2762, www.wellnessliving.com. Rattlesnake Crawl | An array of live rattlesnakes will be on display at Cave Creek Regional Park. | Details: 2-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. Cave Creek Regional Park, 37900 Valentine's Day Chat with a N. Cave Creek Parkway. $7 per Coroner | Spend your Valentine's vehicle. 623- night hearing stories of cannibalism, 4650431, www.maricopacountyparks murder and other deadly examples .net/events/2020-rattlesnake-crawl. of relationships gone wrong. | Details: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Valley Garden Center, 1809 N. Page 19 Press Coverage February 2020 15th Ave., Phoenix. $25. 602-314 4346, curiousnatureshop.com. Love in the Hills| If you've already found your partner and are looking for a way to refresh the love, renew your vows at Fountain Park in Fountain Hills. No paperwork is needed.|Details: 2-6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Fountain Park, 12925 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. Free. 480-837 8168, www.samifinejewelry.com. Ballet Arizona's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' | Choreographed by Ib Andersen, the ballet will feature "fun-loving characters, quarreling fairies and mistaken identities," according to the ballet's website. | Details: Six performances Feb. 13-16. Symphony Hall Phoenix, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. $34-$168. 602-381- 1096, balletaz.org. Page 20